Table 5 Major and minor errors observed in phylogenetic trees constructed by students
From: Student construction of phylogenetic trees in an introductory biology course
| Major error | Group unit exam (n = 23) | Individual final exam (n = 77) | Group final exam (n = 22) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Incorrect relatedness | 0 (0 %) | 10 (13 %) | 3 (14 %) |
| Incorrect traits | 1 (4 %) | 10 (13 %) | 3 (14 %) |
| Contemporary descent | 5 (22 %) | 12 (16 %) | 5 (23 %) |
| Minor error | |||
| Empty branches | 6 (26 %) | 31 (40 %) | 5 (23 %) |
| Extra nodes | 10 (43 %) | 30 (39 %) | 8 (36 %) |
| Side branches | 0 (0 %) | 7 (9 %) | 1 (5 %) |